Moving has a funny way of making the “simple stuff” feel surprisingly complicated. You can have your boxes labeled, your furniture wrapped, and your route planned… and still end up spending your first night in the new place hunting for a flashlight because the power isn’t on yet.
Transferring utilities is one of those tasks that’s easy to postpone because it doesn’t feel urgent until it suddenly is. The good news: once you understand the order of operations, it’s mostly a checklist. The even better news: doing it right can save you money, avoid service gaps, and reduce a ton of moving-day stress.
This guide walks through how to transfer (or start) electricity, gas, water, and internet—plus a few often-forgotten services—so your new home feels livable from day one.
Start with a utility game plan (before you touch a single box)
Before you call any providers, take 20 minutes to map out what you actually need at the new address and when you need it. Some services can be scheduled to start on move-in day. Others (like internet installs) may require an appointment window that books out weeks in advance.
A simple way to think about it is: what do you need on night one? Usually that’s electricity, water, and either gas or electric heat depending on your setup. Internet can sometimes wait a day or two, but if you work from home or have kids who rely on online school tools, it’s closer to essential.
Also decide whether you’re transferring existing accounts or starting new ones. If you’re moving within the same service area, a transfer is often easiest. If you’re moving across cities or states, you’ll likely close the old account and open a new one with a different provider.
Build a timeline that matches real life (not wishful thinking)
Most people underestimate how early they should start. A solid rule is to begin utility planning 2–4 weeks before your move. If you’re moving during peak season (summer), or into a building with strict install rules, start even earlier.
Write down your move-out date, move-in date, and whether there’s overlap. If you have overlap, you can keep utilities active at both places for a few days to make cleaning and last-minute packing easier. If you don’t have overlap, you’ll want utilities activated at the new place at least one day before you arrive—especially electricity.
Finally, note any “hard deadlines” like elevator reservations, building move-in windows, or when your movers arrive. Utility appointments should never be scheduled in a way that conflicts with access to the property.
Gather the information providers always ask for
Utility companies tend to ask the same questions, and having the answers ready makes the calls quick. Keep a moving folder (digital or paper) with your current account numbers, the service address exactly as it appears on your bill, and your ID details if required.
For the new place, you’ll want the full address including unit number, the date you want service to start, and sometimes the name of the previous tenant/owner (if you have it). Some providers also ask for a Social Security number or a deposit depending on your credit history.
If you’re renting, check your lease to see what utilities are included. Many rentals include water and trash, while electricity and internet are on you. Some buildings have a preferred internet provider, which can limit your options.
Electricity: the one you really don’t want to forget
Electricity is the backbone utility. Without it, you may not have lights, outlets, air conditioning, or even a working fridge if you’re moving food. The good news is that electric service is usually the easiest to start or transfer because it rarely requires someone to come inside your home.
In many areas you can set up service online in under 15 minutes. The key is choosing the right start date and ensuring the utility company has access to the meter if needed.
How to schedule start/stop dates without paying for extra days
If you’re moving out of an apartment, schedule your electricity to end the day after you fully move out (or at least after your final cleaning). That way you’re not cleaning in the dark, and you can still run the vacuum, fans, or air conditioning while you finish up.
For the new place, schedule electricity to start the day before you arrive if possible. This gives you a buffer in case of delays or if you need to plug in chargers, run a dehumidifier, or test appliances before moving furniture in.
If you’re trying to minimize overlap, you can time it to start on move-in day. Just be aware that if anything goes wrong (like a meter access issue), you don’t want to be the person calling customer service at 6 p.m. on moving day.
Deposit surprises, billing quirks, and how to avoid them
Some electricity providers require a deposit for new accounts, especially if you’re moving to a new state or you don’t have established utility credit. Ask up front so you’re not caught off guard. In some places, setting up autopay can reduce or eliminate the deposit.
Another common surprise is billing cycles. Your final bill may arrive after your move, and it might include a partial month. Set a reminder to check that it’s paid so you don’t accidentally rack up late fees at an address you no longer live at.
Also consider whether your electricity plan has time-of-use rates. If your new provider offers multiple plans, choose one that matches your lifestyle—especially if you work from home and use power during daytime hours.
Gas: handle it carefully, especially if appliances are involved
Gas service often powers heating, hot water, stoves, ovens, and dryers. If your new place uses gas, you’ll want it active quickly—hot showers and cooking are major quality-of-life wins after a move.
Gas transfers can be straightforward, but they sometimes require safety checks, pilot light relighting, or technician visits depending on local rules and whether the service was recently shut off.
When you need a technician (and when you don’t)
If the gas is already on at the new address and you’re simply putting it in your name, you may be able to do it without an appointment. But if the gas has been shut off, many providers require a technician to turn it back on and verify there are no leaks.
Schedule this early. In busy seasons, gas appointments can book out. If you’re moving into a home with gas heat and it’s winter, you’ll want that appointment locked in as soon as you sign your lease or close on the house.
If you’re unsure whether the gas is on, ask your landlord, property manager, or real estate agent. It’s better to know now than find out when you try to take your first hot shower.
Appliance transitions: stoves, dryers, and “who disconnects what?”
If you’re bringing a gas stove or dryer, confirm whether your movers will disconnect it. Many moving companies won’t disconnect gas lines for liability reasons. That may mean hiring a licensed plumber or gas technician to disconnect and cap the line properly.
On the other end, installation may also require a professional. Even if it looks simple, gas connections must be secure and leak-tested. It’s not the place to experiment with DIY if you’re not trained.
Also check whether your new home uses natural gas or propane. Propane setups often involve a tank and a separate supplier, which changes the whole process.
Water and sewer: sometimes automatic, sometimes not
Water service can be a little confusing because it varies so much by location. In some cities, water stays on and simply gets billed to the property owner, who then passes it to the tenant. In other places, you must set up an account directly with the municipal utility.
Sewer and stormwater fees may be bundled with water, or they might appear as separate line items. Either way, it’s worth confirming what you’re responsible for so you don’t get an unexpected bill weeks after you’ve settled in.
How to find the right water provider fast
If you’re not sure who provides water, start with your city or county website. Many municipalities have a “Start/Stop Service” page. If you’re renting, your lease often lists the provider or explains whether water is included.
For condos and some apartment buildings, water may be managed by the HOA or building management. In that case, you may not have an account to transfer at all—you’ll just see the charge on your rent statement or HOA dues.
When you do need to set it up yourself, be ready to provide proof of occupancy (lease agreement or closing documents). Some utilities require this before they’ll open an account.
Avoiding move-in day headaches: check for shutoff valves and leaks
Even if you’ve scheduled water service, do a quick walkthrough when you first get access. Find the main shutoff valve and make sure you can turn it (or at least know where it is). In an emergency, that knowledge is priceless.
Check under sinks and behind toilets for any signs of leaks. A small drip can become a big issue when you’re busy unpacking and not paying attention to water sounds.
If your water is on but the hot water isn’t working, it might be a gas or electric water heater issue—not the water utility. Knowing the difference can save you time when you’re trying to troubleshoot quickly.
Internet: the utility that requires the most scheduling
Internet is the modern-day “must have,” but it’s also the service most likely to require a technician, a modem shipment, or a building-specific setup. If you wait too long, you can end up stuck with a week (or more) of hotspot life.
Start by checking what providers serve your new address. Availability can change block by block, especially for fiber. If your building has a preferred provider, you may have only one choice.
Picking a plan that matches your household (not the sales pitch)
Speed is important, but it’s not the only factor. Consider how many people will be online at once, whether you do video calls, and whether you stream in 4K. A household with multiple remote workers will feel very different from a solo user who mainly browses and checks email.
Also ask about data caps, promotional pricing, and equipment fees. Some “cheap” plans get expensive once you add modem rental and router fees. If you already own a compatible modem or mesh router, you might be able to save.
If you’re moving to a larger space, Wi‑Fi coverage matters. Sometimes the best “upgrade” isn’t faster internet—it’s better home networking so the signal actually reaches the rooms you use.
Install day logistics: access, timing, and backup options
If you need a technician, schedule the appointment for a day when you can be there for the full window. Some buildings require proof of appointment or coordination with a concierge. And if you’re moving into a gated community, make sure the technician can get in.
Have a backup internet plan for the first few days. Even a temporary hotspot can keep you functional if the install gets delayed. If you rely on internet for work, consider arranging a coworking space option as a fallback.
Once the internet is active, run a speed test in a few rooms. If your router placement is poor, you’ll feel it immediately. It’s easier to adjust before your furniture is fully set up.
Timing utilities around the move itself (so everything clicks together)
Utility transfers don’t happen in a vacuum—your move schedule affects everything. If you’re coordinating movers, elevator reservations, parking permits, or long-distance travel days, your utility start dates should support that reality.
This is especially true for long-distance moves where you might not arrive at the new home until late in the day. Walking into a dark house after a cross-country drive is a scenario you can avoid with a little planning.
Long-distance moves: build in buffers for delays
When you’re moving across state lines, delays happen. Weather, traffic, loading times, and delivery windows can all shift. For that reason, schedule key utilities (electricity and water) to start at least a day early.
If your move involves multiple stops or storage, you may not know your exact arrival time. Having utilities active early means you can show up when you show up and still be able to charge your phone, run lights, and take care of basic needs.
If you’re coordinating a major relocation and want the physical move handled by professionals who specialize in these timelines, working with reliable interstate moving experts in Los Angeles can make it easier to plan around realistic delivery windows instead of guessing.
Local moves: avoid overlapping appointments and building rules
Local moves can feel simpler, but they still have scheduling traps. If you’re moving within the same city, you might be tempted to do everything last minute. The problem is that internet installs and certain utility start dates still require lead time.
If you’re moving into an apartment building, ask about move-in rules. Some buildings only allow move-ins on certain days or require you to reserve an elevator. That affects when you can meet a technician or when you can access the unit to troubleshoot anything.
And if you’re coordinating help for a neighborhood move, it’s useful to align your utility timing with the day your team arrives. For example, if you plan to hire movers Brentwood, schedule your electricity and water to be active early that morning so you’re not juggling customer service calls while directing furniture.
Don’t overlook these “extra” services that feel small until they aren’t
Beyond the big four (electricity, gas, water, internet), there are a handful of services that can quietly cause stress if you forget them. Some are utilities, some are subscriptions, and some are essential household services that keep your home comfortable.
Think of these as the “quality of life” transfers. None of them are hard, but they’re easy to miss when your brain is full of boxes and change-of-address forms.
Trash, recycling, and HOA-managed services
In many cities, trash and recycling are tied to the address and managed by the municipality. You may not need to do anything at all. In other areas—especially in suburban communities—trash is a private service you need to set up.
If you’re moving into a home with an HOA, ask what’s included. Some HOAs cover trash pickup, recycling, and even basic internet or cable. Knowing what’s already handled prevents you from accidentally paying for duplicate services.
Also find out your pickup days. It sounds minor, but it’s helpful to know when you’ll be able to get rid of moving debris like broken-down boxes and packing paper.
Security systems, smart home devices, and monitoring subscriptions
If you have a monitored security system, contact the provider to update the service address. Some companies require new equipment or a technician visit when you move, especially if your old system was hardwired.
For smart home devices—like thermostats, doorbells, and cameras—make a list of what you’re taking and what’s staying. If you’re leaving devices behind, factory reset them and remove them from your account. If you’re bringing them, pack them in a clearly labeled “open first” box with any mounting hardware.
Don’t forget Wi‑Fi-dependent devices. They won’t work until your internet is active, so it’s normal for a smart home to feel “offline” for a day or two after a move.
How to handle utility transfers when you’re using storage or containers
If your move includes storage—especially if you’re staging, renovating, or waiting on a closing date—your utility plan needs a few adjustments. You might need utilities active at the old place longer, or you might need temporary service at the new place before your belongings arrive.
Container moves add another layer: you may be loading over multiple days, or you may need help loading efficiently so you can keep your timeline tight.
Keeping essentials running while your stuff is in transit
If your belongings are in storage, you may still need basic utilities at your old place for a short time—especially if you’re doing repairs, painting, or cleaning after the movers leave. Electricity and water are the most common ones to keep active briefly.
At the new place, you might want utilities started early even if your furniture hasn’t arrived. This is helpful if you’re receiving deliveries, meeting contractors, or just want the home ready when the truck shows up.
If you’re living somewhere temporary in between (like a short-term rental), make sure you understand what utilities are included so you don’t accidentally double-pay.
Loading support and why it affects your scheduling
If you’re loading a container, time matters. A well-planned load can reduce the number of days you need access to the old home and can help you stick to your utility shutoff schedule.
Some people choose professional loading help to speed things up and avoid damage. If that’s your route, coordinating a PODS loading service can help you finish loading within a predictable window, which makes it easier to confidently schedule utility stop dates instead of leaving them “just in case.”
Even if you’re loading yourself, plan your load days with daylight and power in mind—running fans, charging tools, and keeping your phone alive matters more than you’d think.
Address changes: the behind-the-scenes step that keeps bills from going missing
Utility transfers are only half the battle. The other half is making sure your bills, confirmations, and final statements reach you. It’s surprisingly common for people to set up service correctly and still miss a final bill because it went to the old address.
Set up mail forwarding, update your billing addresses, and keep a digital paper trail of every confirmation number and start/stop date.
Where to update your address (beyond the obvious)
Start with USPS (or your local postal service) forwarding. Then update your address directly with each utility provider—don’t assume forwarding will catch everything, especially if the provider sends emails sometimes and paper bills other times.
Also update your address with your bank and credit card companies if you have autopay set up. A mismatched billing address can sometimes trigger payment issues or fraud alerts.
If you’re moving to a new state, update your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance. Those aren’t utilities, but they often share the same “address problem” that can create headaches later.
Keep a simple utility tracker so nothing slips
Create a basic tracker (a notes app, spreadsheet, or checklist) with each provider, phone number, account number, and the date you scheduled service to start/stop. Add confirmation numbers and any promised credits or deposit amounts.
This is especially helpful if you’re sharing responsibilities with a partner or roommate. One person can handle electricity and water while the other handles internet and gas, but you still want everything in one place.
And if you’re managing a move while working full time, a tracker prevents those “Did we ever call the water company?” moments.
Move-in day utility checks that take 15 minutes and save hours later
Once you arrive, do a quick utility check before you start unpacking everything. It’s much easier to troubleshoot when your boxes aren’t stacked to the ceiling and you can access outlets, shutoff valves, and the breaker panel.
Think of it like a pre-flight checklist for your home. You’re not expecting problems—but if there is one, you’ll catch it early.
Electricity: breakers, outlets, and big appliances
Flip a few light switches, test a couple outlets with a charger, and locate the breaker panel. If something isn’t working, it might be as simple as a tripped breaker or a GFCI outlet that needs resetting.
Check major appliances if they’re included: fridge, stove, HVAC, and any built-in microwave or dishwasher. If you notice an issue, document it right away (photos help) and notify your landlord or seller promptly.
If you have a smart thermostat, confirm it powers on. If not, it could be a wiring issue or a tripped breaker—better to find out now than at bedtime.
Water and gas: pressure, hot water, and safety basics
Turn on a faucet and check water pressure in the kitchen and bathroom. Flush toilets to confirm they fill properly. If water is slow or discolored at first, it may just be air in the lines or water that’s been sitting—run it a bit and see if it clears.
For hot water, give the heater time. If it’s gas, make sure the pilot is on if applicable (some systems are electronic). If you smell gas at any point, leave the area and contact the gas provider immediately—don’t try to “figure it out” yourself.
Locate the gas shutoff valve if your home has gas. You don’t need to touch it, but knowing where it is matters for emergencies.
Common utility transfer mistakes (and how to avoid them)
Most utility problems aren’t complicated—they’re just the result of timing, assumptions, or missing one small step. Learning from the most common mistakes can save you from spending your first week on hold with customer service.
Here are a few pitfalls that show up again and again.
Assuming the previous occupant’s service will “just keep working”
Sometimes it does—until it doesn’t. If the previous occupant schedules a shutoff date, your service can stop suddenly even if you’re already living there. That can mean no power, no gas, or no water with little warning.
Always set up your own account and get a confirmation. If the provider says service is already active, confirm the date it will transfer into your name.
If you’re buying a home, don’t assume the seller left utilities on. Confirm with your agent and schedule your service start date for the day of closing (or earlier if allowed).
Forgetting about final meter reads and move-out documentation
In some areas, utilities do a final meter read when you close an account. In others, they estimate. Either way, it’s smart to take your own photos of the meter (where accessible) and keep them with your move-out records.
If you’re renting, take photos of the unit condition too. Utility disputes sometimes get tangled with move-out disputes, and documentation helps keep everything clean and factual.
Also return any rented equipment—like internet modems or cable boxes—promptly. Unreturned equipment fees can be surprisingly high.
Quick-reference checklist you can copy into your notes app
If you want the simplest possible action list, here’s a practical checklist you can paste into your phone and check off as you go. Adjust based on what utilities you actually manage (renters often won’t handle water/trash directly).
2–4 weeks before: confirm what utilities are included; identify providers at new address; schedule internet install if needed; schedule gas appointment if required.
1–2 weeks before: schedule electricity start/stop; schedule water start/stop (if applicable); update billing addresses; set up mail forwarding; create utility tracker with confirmation numbers.
Move week: pack modem/router and label it; keep chargers accessible; confirm technician access instructions; take photos of meters where possible; confirm final bills will go to your new address or email.
Move-in day: test electricity outlets and breakers; test water pressure and hot water; confirm internet equipment is connected; document any issues immediately.
With a little planning, utility transfers become one of the easiest parts of moving—quietly working in the background while you focus on making your new place feel like home.
